Volkswagen Amarok bags international pick-up award
The Volkswagen Amarok has won the ‘International Pick-up Award’ (IPUA) for the third time, sharing top spot with the Ford Ranger.
The award was presented to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles at the Solutrans commercial vehicle show in Lyon, France.
The second-generation Amarok model was launched in Ireland this summer, with a starting price of €47,355. Available here as a double cab or four-door pick-up, the new Amarok builds on an already successful formula thanks to the addition of more than 25 assistance systems, infotainment displays measuring up to 12.3in, and high-quality materials throughout.
Powered by efficient four- and six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engines, the popular pickup comes standard with all-wheel drive and has a payload of up to 1.19 tonnes and a towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes.
It is available in five trim levels: ‘Amarok’, ‘Life’, ‘Style’, ‘PanAmericana’ and ‘Aventura’. At 5,350 mm long, the new Amarok is 96 mm longer than its predecessor. A wheelbase of 3,270 mm represents an increase of 173 mm, providing more room in the spacious double cab.
The range starts with a 168HP version of the 2.0-litre TDI power unit, available in entry-level Amarok and Life trims. Stepping up to the Style model increases output of the 2.0 TDI engine to 202HP and adds a 10-speed automatic transmission (optional in Life trim).
A six-cylinder, three-litre TDI engine is available in Style, PanAmerica and Aventura models. Power has increased to 237HP, making light work of heavy loads, while power is channelled through a new 10-speed automatic transmission.
Standard equipment is generous, including power folding mirrors, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, VW Connect with eCall emergency system and online voice control, LED headlights, a 10.1 inch infotainment system, eight inch multifunction display, semi-automatic air conditioning, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, rear-view camera and parking sensors.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has sold just under 100 units of the new Amarok in Ireland so far this year, according to SIMI figures.